John Wendell Titus

Exeter- John Wendell Titus (formerly of Rye, NH), beloved husband and father, accomplished athlete, decorated military officer, and dedicated community member, passed away on July 1, 2026. Born on July 27, 1932, in Boston, Massachusetts, John’s early years were marked by a passion for hockey. He co-captained Melrose High School to the 1950 Massachusetts and New England hockey championships. At Dartmouth College (‘54), he scored 61 goals in three seasons, including an impressive 37 in his senior year. Following college John represented the U.S. at the 1956 Olympics and 1955 and 1957 IIHF Championships. He was inducted into the Melrose High School and Massachusetts Hockey Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as a Bay State hockey legend. After hockey John found a new passion for flying. He served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force piloting F-100s, B-52s, and C-130s. He furthered his aviation career as a Captain for American Airlines from 1966 to 1992. In retirement, John followed his love for history. He restored a Revolutionary-era Colonial house in Newburyport, MA, reconstructed an 1800’s Cape house in Rye, NH, and restored a classic 1908 Goodhue Laker Launch boat. Throughout, he was a ready volunteer for his friends and community. John is remembered for his humility, warmth, and unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. He cherished his roots, valued lifelong friendships, and inspired all who knew him with his leadership and generosity. He is survived by his loving wife Beverly of 50 years; son Scott of Stratham, NH; son Chris (Conley) of Tucson, AZ; daughter Jody Fallon of Chesapeake, VA; daughter Sandy (Greg) DeSisto of Portsmouth, NH; his former wife Joyce Titus of Wolfeboro, NH; 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; nephews and nieces; and a wide circle of friends and admirers. John’s legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the communities he enriched. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. A funeral service will by held at St. Theresa’s Parish in Rye, NH, Thursday, July 9th at 11 am, followed by internment and a reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Friends of Dartmouth Hockey by clicking here

John Wendell Titus

July 27, 1932 - July 1, 2026